Optical camouflage was once the stuff of science fiction, but modern technological advances are making it a reality. This technology can raise ethical issues, especially due to its potential military applications, and we need to think about its responsible use in the context of the value-neutrality debate in science and technology.

Introduction

Optical camouflage has long been a concept that exists only in the human imagination. Science fiction themes such as “invisibility” have been explored in various cultures, from ancient mythology to modern times. However, in the 21st century, advances in advanced technologies such as nanotechnology and metamaterials have made it no longer an impossible fantasy. With technology advancing at a dizzying pace, we are now living in an era where the technologies of our imagination are becoming a reality.

Optical camouflage in sci-fi

The movie Ghost In The Shell (1995) is set in the distant future, at a time when computers were just becoming commonplace in every home. In the movie, most people are cyborgs, and artificial intelligence has reached a point where it is almost equal to the human soul. By combining the human soul with a program on the net called a “puppeteer,” artificial intelligence can even reach the point where it can be called life.
One of the important technologies in this movie is optical camouflage. The protagonist, Major Kusanagi, makes his body invisible in battle scenes to overpower his enemies, a concept that has been used in science fiction for a long time, but which modern science and technology have recreated. Optical camouflage is not just fiction, as it would be a paradigm shift in the world of optics if it were to be realized.

The scientific background of optical camouflage

Optical camouflage was once only possible in the imagination, but now, thanks to the work of Professor Susumu Tachi at the University of Tokyo in Japan, it’s a possibility. His proposed technique is based on the concept of retroreflection. Simply put, it involves covering the surface of the coat with microscopic glass beads that reflect light to create transparency. Other researchers are looking into using advanced metamaterials to divert the path of light. If these technologies are realized, optical camouflage could become a reality and no longer a fanciful concept.

Value-neutrality of science and technology

This is where we need to discuss the difference between science and technology. Science is purely about explaining natural phenomena, while technology is about applying them to serve a purpose. In this sense, science can be value-neutral, but technology is not. Technologies, such as optical camouflage, are developed based on scientific research, but their purpose can vary depending on their application.

Optical camouflage as a military technology

Optical camouflage, using retroreflections or metamaterials, has the potential to be a powerful weapon when combined with stealth technology. The ability to maximize the concealment of fighter jets, warships, submarines, and more could dramatically change the face of warfare. However, we must remember how misuse of technology has led to tragedy in the past. For example, during World War II, the atomic bomb brought devastating consequences to humanity, which scientists were unable to predict in advance.
Similarly, optical camouflage can pose a huge unethical problem when weaponized. In warfare or espionage, the creation of a technology that can completely conceal an enemy could spark a new arms race and lead to even greater destruction and human suffering.

Conclusion

Optical camouflage is a technological advancement with endless possibilities. However, if this technology is weaponized and used in warfare, we will face even greater ethical challenges. Science and technology can be neutral on its own, but how it is used can have a profound impact. When optical camouflage is commercialized in the future, we will need to consider its responsible use to ensure that it has a positive impact on humanity.